Stoke ExchangeThe Adventure Market Update

Winter Rebound - Sugarbush Stoke Exchange

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Everybody is aware of the weather challenges we've had this winter. Sure, we've had frigid days, enjoyed powder several times and even opened significant numbers of natural snow trails. But the consecutive thaws have taken their toll each time.

What you might not know is that after every meltdown, the snowmakers and groomers have worked modern miracles to bring the mountains back from the brink. The open trails are in remarkably good condition and continue to improve.

Edge-deep freshies this morning on Organgrinder.

Winter has also returned this week and Sugarbush has gotten 5 inches in the last two days at the summits. We have a chance of snow in the forecast every day into next week and our elevation has been helping wring extra flakes out of the air. Don't be surprised to hear about more accumulation over the weekend.

Bush Pilot Coach Jesse training on Birch Run yesterday.

Today's 1st Tracks Snow Report.

Despite the setbacks, we continue to have a ton of fun. Last weekend's Mt. Ellen 50th Anniversary was raging, many thanks to everyone that came and participated.

The Elliot family, original Mt. Ellen owners, helping celebrate.

At one point, looking around at the crowd in the Green Mountain Lounge, I was reminded of one of the coolest things about Sugarbush. We may be in a small remote valley, but we are also one of the centers of the ski/snowboard universe. In the room, there were Olympians, movie stars, business moguls, ski industry pioneers and a large contingent of our incredibly talented community.

Egan with old friend Tom Day and his two children.

Speaking of stars and pioneers, we were graced with a visit this week from Tom Day and his family. Tom grew up in Montpelier, used to skip school to ski with Egan, and went on to work with John as an athlete and cameraman. He is also a Champlain College graduate. From these humble beginnings, Tom is now the Director of Cinematography for Warren Miller Entertainment.

Starting this Saturday, Champlain College and Sugarbush are teaming up to offer the First Tracks Film Camp. This is a chance to ski and shoot with Egan, learn strong editing skills from CC faculty and explore Sugarbush's great terrain. Get all the details here.

In addition to his successful ski career, our own Doug Lewis is now an announcer for NBC Universal Sports, calling ski races all over the world. He's headed to Sochi soon. Be sure to tune in for his fun knowledgeable play-by-play action analysis.

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About John Atkinson

Follow our own 'John of all Trades' as he explores and documents adventures in and around Sugarbush Resort and the Mad River Valley.